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Liverpool have wanted a striker all summer and they are starting to step up their interest.

The Reds have not exactly hidden the fact that they want a new number nine in the transfer window and this has been their plan ever since lifting their 20th league title.

Many names have been linked and whichever player they get has all they need to become a successful striker at Liverpool, especially as they will have the likes of Florian Wirtz and Mohamed Salah to help create chances for them.

The ‘dream’ signing has always been Alexander Isak from Newcastle, although the Magpies have maintained all summer that he is not for sale.

However, Newcastle’s stance on Isak might have changed as Liverpool are preparing a record-breaking bid to sign the Swede before the window closes.

Richard Hughes, of course, has a huge role to play but he might play a more integral role than most fans think, with sources close to Liverpool suggesting that he could be on the right track.

Photo by George Wood/Getty Images

Hughes came under some criticism last summer after failing to sign anyone of note, although he has certainly proven doubters wrong and is giving supporters a summer to remember.

The news that he is preparing to negotiate for Isak has also shocked many, with most feeling that a move is impossible, but journalist David Lynch believes that one key factor might suggest that he is more likely to join than not.

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“One more thing that I would say that is worth underlying in this whole process is that Richard Hughes and Eddie Howe are long-time friends,” Lynch said on his YouTube channel.

“With that in mind, and this is something emphasised to me by a source, surely Richard Hughes isn’t going into this situation blind, believing that Newcastle are just going to reject this, I think he must have a sneaking suspicion that there’s a possibility of Liverpool doing a deal here.

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“That is something that should encourage Liverpool supporters and make them think there is a real chance that Liverpool get this deal over the line.”

The Reds have been left somewhat embarrassed in the past after having bids accepted by clubs, only for the players themselves to reject a move, suggesting Liverpool will be more careful with every deal from there on out.

That being said, Hughes must have been given a signal of intent from one of the parties involved, even if a small signal, or else he would not even consider negotiating.

Liverpool have certainly shown their dominance so far this summer and this situation is no different, with the Reds basically giving Newcastle an ultimatum.

Either the Magpies sell Isak to them for a British transfer record in the coming weeks or Liverpool will start negotiations with Hugo Ekitike, a player that Newcastle desperately want.

Based on what Arne Slot’s side can offer, you would expect both players to be keener on a move to Anfield, suggesting that it will be a lose-lose situation for Eddie Howe and his team.

Of course, the Liverpool hierarchy and supporters would much prefer the Swede after chasing and admiring him for so long, but if Newcastle hold firm, Ekitike will very likely be donning the Red shirt next season.


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